Our seven principles of a child rights-based approach

Unicef UK’s seven principles of a child rights-based approach form the foundation of a guiding framework for putting rights into practice within public services.

This approach, and its accompanying seven principles, has been developed by Unicef UK and is being piloted in a select number of local authorities in the UK. Each principle is significant and valuable in and of itself but only together do the seven principles create a child rights framework.

Our seven principles

Dignity: each child is a unique person with intrinsic worth and should be respected and valued in all circumstances.

Best interests of the child: determining and doing what is best for a child, with that child, at that time and in that situation.

Non-discrimination: each child is treated fairly and protected from discrimination.

Life, survival and development: each child is able to develop, thrive, achieve and flourish.

Participation: each child is heard in matters affecting them and participates in the lives of their family, community and wider society.

Interdependence and indivisibility: each child enjoys all rights enshrined in the convention, whatever the circumstances.

Transparency and accountability: dependable, open and accountable relationships and dialogue between local government, communities, families and children and young people is essential in the collective goal of securing children’s rights.